Diabetes is a disease that causes an imbalance in the body relating to the hormone insulin and the regulation of blood sugar, and it can contribute to heart disease in some people. Many individuals suffering from diabetes, whether it is type 1 or type 2 diabetes, are often advised to take aspirin on a daily basis. It has been shown that aspirin and diabetes are positively related, as aspirin can possibly prevent the development of cardiovascular disease associated with diabetes. Even individuals who can maintain their diabetes without the use of medication are also advised to take a daily aspirin.

Research into diabetes and its effects on human health have shown that individuals suffering from type 1 or type 2 diabetes are often at a higher risk for stroke and cardiovascular disease. Daily aspirin supplementation has been shown to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease that arises from complications with diabetes. Aspirin and diabetes research indicates that diabetics produce too much of a substance called thromboxane, which causes blood vessels to constrict. This can cause excessive platelets in the blood and can promote clots in the heart vessel, a dangerous aspect of heart disease.

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With aspirin and diabetes, aspirin helps suppress the excessive production of thromboxane, helping prevent the buildup of plaques and blood clots in the blood vessels. Aspirin also aides in increasing blood and oxygen flow throughout the body, as well as fighting inflammation that can occur with uncontrolled blood sugar levels. More often than not, aspirin and diabetes treatment involves more benefits than just heart disease risk. These benefits include fighting pain or inflammation, such as headaches associated with low blood sugar, as well as combating fever associated with the cold or flu.

Many physicians recommend that aspirin supplementation be implemented in an overall treatment plan for maintaining diabetes, whether type 1 or 2. Along with necessary insulin injections, as well as a healthy diet and exercise program, aspirin is often prescribed to diabetic patients. Both aspirin and diabetes research has shown that daily aspirin therapy is beneficial for those who have suffered from a previous stroke associated with diabetes, and may help prevent future complications with the cardiovascular system. Daily aspirin supplementation may increase internal bleeding risk in some individuals, so having a full examination by a qualified physician and cardiologist is important before beginning any daily aspirin supplementation plan.

Discuss this Article

literally45Post 3

@SarahGen-- I disagree with you. The aspirin that doctors recommend to diabetics and those with cardiovascular disease is baby aspirin. This aspirin is a much lower dose than regular aspirin. So it still has the benefits and is less likely to cause stomach problems or side effects.

Even diabetics without cardiovascular disease can benefit from a baby aspiring a few times a week. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation. Aspirin improves circulation because it thins blood. I'm not an expert though, these are just things I've read about. Before starting on any kind of drug or supplement, everyone should ask their doctor first.

donasmrsPost 2

@SarahGen-- Thanks for mentioning this. Doctors always recommend aspirin, my doctor did too. But very few people talk about the risks associated with aspirin. I know that those on anti-coagulant drugs ought not use aspirin either as it can lead to internal bleeding.

SarahGenPost 1

I know that those with diabetes have a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. But I'm not sure if it's a good idea for someone who currently doesn't have heart disease to take aspirin regularly.

Aspirin is an NSAID, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. These drugs have side effects if they are used frequently. The biggest side effect is stomach ulcers. Scientific studies have proven that frequent use of NSAIDs like aspirin cause ulcers. So why take this risk when there isn't even an already existing cardiovascular disease.

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